Deadbolt installation and upgrades
Last reviewed July 2026 · Swift Key San Diego
A properly installed deadbolt with a 3-inch strike-plate screw reinforcement is the single best security upgrade you can make to a home. We install new deadbolts on doors that don't have one, upgrade builder-grade to Grade-1 hardware, and cut the door when a bore hole isn't there yet. Most installs run 30 to 45 minutes.
What's included in this service?
- Install new deadbolts on doors without one (full door prep)
- Upgrade builder-grade deadbolts to ANSI Grade-1 or Grade-2
- Install 3" screw strike plates (replaces factory 3/4" screws)
- Add a second deadbolt to sliding glass doors or French doors
- Install double-cylinder deadbolts (where fire code permits)
- Electronic deadbolt and smart deadbolt installation
When do you need this service?
- Door has a knob lock only, no deadbolt
- Current deadbolt is wobbly, loose, or old
- Recent break-in attempt or neighborhood concern
- Moving in and want to start with new, keyed-alike hardware
- Upgrading insurance premiums (some policies credit Grade-1 deadbolts)
- Adding security to rental property between tenants
What do homeowners ask about Deadbolts?
What does ANSI Grade 1 mean for break-ins?
ANSI Grade 1 is the highest residential deadbolt rating: it survives ten strikes of 75 foot-pounds before failing, versus two for a builder-grade Grade 3 lock. Our Schlage B60 vs. Kwikset forced-entry review (linked below) breaks down which Grade 1 deadbolt holds up best against drilling, sawing, and kick-ins.
What brand of deadbolt should I install?
For ANSI Grade-1: Schlage B60/B62 series, Medeco Maxum, Mul-T-Lock Hercular. For ANSI Grade-2: Kwikset 980/985, Schlage B250. Avoid builder-grade Kwikset 600-series and anything Grade-3 on an exterior door. We'll match the finish to your existing hardware.
Is a Grade-1 deadbolt actually safer than Grade-3?
Yes, measurably. Grade-1 survives 10 impact strikes from a 100-lb load; Grade-3 fails at 2. The cylinder pick-resistance difference is even bigger. But hardware alone doesn't protect you, the strike plate and door frame matter as much. We upgrade all three.
Can you install a deadbolt on a door that doesn't have one?
Yes. We bore the 2-1/8" face hole and 1" edge hole for the bolt, mortise the strike on the frame, and install. On fiberglass and metal doors this takes a bit longer. On solid wood doors we can usually do it in 45 minutes.
Should I use a smart deadbolt or a traditional one?
Depends on the use case. Traditional deadbolts are more reliable long-term, fewer moving parts, no batteries, no firmware. Smart deadbolts are convenient for Airbnb hosts, rentals with contractors, and busy households with teens. Many customers install one smart (keypad) on the main door and traditional on secondary doors.
Comparing specific hardware? Read our full Schlage B60 vs. Kwikset security review for drilling, sawing, and kick-in resistance test results.
Where do we offer Deadbolts in San Diego County?
We provide deadbolts in every city and community in San Diego County. Pick your city for local climate notes and service specifics.
See deadbolts in all 67 cities
Need deadbolts in San Diego County?
Call for a free quote. Most work scheduled within the week.